E-2D Advanced Hawkeye airborne early warning aircraft joins the U.S. Navy Fleet

: Posted On Saturday, 29 March 2014 09:15

Naval Forces News - USA

E-2D Advanced Hawkeye airborne early warning aircraft joins the U.S. Navy Fleet

The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye officially became ready for tasking with Airborne Early Warning Squadron 125 (VAW-125) during a ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk Chambers Field, March 27.

"This is a revolutionary jump in capabilities," said Capt. Todd Watkins, commander, Airborne Command Control and Logistics Wing. "The E-2D serves as the eyes of the fleet. If it's out there, we will see it."

NORFOLK (March 20, 2014) An E-2D Hawkeye assigned to the Tiger Tails of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 125 flies over Naval Station Norfolk. VAW-125 provides airborne early warning and command and control to Carrier Air Wing 1 and is assigned aboard the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ernest R. Scott/Released)

The "Tigertails" of VAW-125 are the first Navy squadron to become fully operational with the Advanced Hawkeye, the newest, most technologically capable variant of the venerable E-2 airborne early warning command and control platform.

The E-2D is expected to be instrumental to how the Navy will conduct battle management command and control. Able to sweep ahead of the strike, the E-2D can manage the mission and keep carrier battle groups out of harm's way.

"We were very excited to be the first squadron to receive the [Advanced] Hawkeye," said Lt. James Beaty, a naval flight officer who has worked extensively with the E-2D. "It's been a challenge, but I've enjoyed learning everything this aircraft is capable of."

The E-2D's advanced technology makes it a multi-mission platform through its ability to coordinate concurrent missions which may arise during a single flight. These missions can include airborne strike, ground force support, rescue operations and managing a reliable communications network capable of supporting drug interdiction operations.

"I laid down the challenge to learn this new platform and defend the fleet," said Capt. William Ewald, commander, Carrier Air Wing 1. "Today, the "Tigertails" are ready for tasking and I can assure you, they will succeed."

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ernest R. Scott, Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic Public Affairs